Head North for a variety of delights

The Namaqualand is a semi-arid desert in South Africa. What is unique about this area is that once a year when the first rain falls on the desert, the cracked dry earth becomes covered with a carpet of flowers. These flowers are called the Namaqualand Daisies and it is indeed a sight to behold. The locals in this area are friendly and laid back and seem to have been left behind in time. The fisherman still go out in little fishing boats every day and sell only the catch that they do not need to feed their families. This area is in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa and is a must visit if you find your self travelling to the country.

Fun in the sea and sun

There are many opportunities for scuba diving enthusiasts to swim with the sharks along the coast of South Africa. In Cape Town you can go out in a motorised boat and cage dive to see the most iconic shark of them all, the Great White Shark. Durban has the most aggressive of sharks in the Ragged Tooth Shark, affectionately called a Raggie by the locals. This coast line also sports a variety of other sharks and is also where the Coelacanth, which is a prehistoric fish that seems to have survived the age of the dinosaurs, was discovered. So if you are an avid scuba diver, make sure you research the South African coast for your next dive location.

Scenic wonder in South Africa

Among the most famous landmarks in South Africa is Table Mountain. People travel from all over the world to see the cloud that covers the mountain like table cloth. There are hiking tours to the top of the mountain, and those that are not into physical exertion, can take a cable car to the top and have a picnic with a brilliant view of Cape Town spread out in front of you. The Cape is also famous for its’ windy and rainy weather, so if you wish to see the mountain or experience that wonderful view, make sure that you do not visit in the rainy season, from about May to August.

Know your rights

Many people have something negative to say about the hospitality and service industry in South Africa. It is important for us as South Africans to complain if we are not receiving the service that we are paying for. If you do not complain, the problem cannot be dealt with and the institution will be unaware that there is a problem. It is also important to speak up when there is an establishment that is getting it right so that the place can get the recognition that is due to it and it can generate more business for itself. The more industries that offer good service in our economy, the higher the standard for service will be set and the more tourists will be attracted to our country.

South Africa, value for money

In the current economic recession many people are finding it more difficult to go away on holiday. Feeding and entertaining your family is expensive and the cost of accommodation can be exorbitant. There are however many cheap accommodation alternatives available. Camping and caravanning are the most affordable holidays available. However, if the outdoor lifestyle does not suit you, you can opt for a self catering facility where you do not have to take your family out to restaurants for every meal. Should you still prefer to have your meals cooked for you, you can choose a bed and breakfast to meet your needs. A two or three star hotel or resort is also a viable option and can offer you some of the same amenities as five star accommodation.